“The pe aceful transfer of power is not something we invented – it’s something we inherited from our founders, starting right here in the Annapolis State House when in 1783, General George Washington resigned his commission as commander-in-chief. Democracy is our greatest heirloom as a nation, and it’s something we hope to pass on and make more enduring for the next generation.

Our priority has been – and will continue to be – protecting the interests of all Marylanders. In the days after the 2024 election, we articulated our shared dedication to four key principles: Deliver for Marylanders; defend our constitutional rights; grow our economy; and restore faith in our public servants, our institutions, and our democracy. We thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their steadfast partnership in pursuing each of these four goals, and we will partner with the Trump-Vance Administration when we are aligned on those core principles that will make progress for Marylanders. We pray for God’s grace as our state and nation open this next chapter.”

—Maryland Gov. Wes Moore

“Today, the President painted a dystopian picture of America that was full of lies and distortions. Our country does face clear challenges, but most of the ‘solutions’ President Trump outlined will not fix them. For example, while I support targeted tariffs in strategic sectors, the broad and sweeping tariffs he has proposed will only drive prices higher for working Americans. And while I’m for greater government efficiency, his plan to replace merit-based federal civil servants with political cronies will do the opposite and open the door to large-scale corruption. When it comes to effective border security and public safety, it’s clear there is more we can do, but mass deportations by our military will not cure our problems. I am always willing to work with those who want to build an economy that works for all, but I will fight tooth and nail against any effort to turn our country backwards and provide tax cuts to the super-rich at the expense of everyone else.”

— Maryland U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen, Democrat

“Today, two momentous occasions collide — the observation of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the inauguration of Donald Trump, the 47th President of the United States. On this day, as we reflect on both the past and present, it remains my sincere hope that each and every one of us — from the President to my colleagues in the Senate to community leaders and more — have both the openness to see the need of our fellow citizens and the courage and conviction to answer that need. The same openness and courage that Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. had.”

— Maryland U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks, Democrat

“What a privilege to be there for President Trump’s inauguration, and speech under the statue of Lincoln, in the Rotunda.”

—U.S. Rep. Andy Harris, Republican, 1st District of Maryland

“Today, I attended President Trump’s inauguration. While I was disappointed by the results of the election, the smooth transition of power is a sacred principle of American democracy. A Trump presidency will undoubtedly usher in a new wave of Executive Orders and policies. My promise to you is that I will continue to lead with the needs of our district first. I plan to work with the Administration where I can and push back where I must.”

— U.S. Rep. Sarah Elfreth, Democrat, 3rd District of Maryland

“President Trump and I do not always see eye to eye. Nevertheless, I wish him and his administration luck. His decisions these next four years will affect people across the country and around the world. I hope he will make the right ones. I will continue working to build consensus on the most pressing issues facing our people and will do my part to ensure our country remains a land of opportunity, democracy, and the rule of law. From standing up for our federal workers to protecting the historic investments Democrats made in the American people the past four years, I will keep fighting for Marylanders and Americans no matter who sits in the Oval Office.”

— U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer, Democrat, 5th District of Maryland